Bridges

When a tooth is lost, the teeth on either side of the gap are instantly put at risk. The arch which provides support for all of the teeth is compromised, and the adjacent teeth will start to drift into the gap, begin to loosen, and will eventually be lost themselves.

The process will repeat itself over and over until most or all of the teeth in the arch have fallen out. The bone in the jaw below the teeth will also start to dissolve, and the lips and cheeks will become sunken in.

Our Shawnee, Kansas dentists have several solutions for lost teeth, the most common of which is bridgework to span the gaps, support the adjacent teeth, and give you back your smile with a natural looking, tooth colored restoration.

The Process:

At your first visit, a mold is made of the gap and the teeth on either side (also known as abutment teeth). A mold is taken, and a bridge is created that looks like your original tooth (or teeth). The part that looks like a tooth is called a pontic; this is normally made of porcelain that will look and feel like your original tooth.

At your second visit, the bridge is attached to the abutment teeth using small metal clasps or precision attachments. The arch of your teeth is restored, and the remaining teeth supported. You will be able to chew and speak normally, and your cheek and lip will be filled out correctly.

A properly customized and installed bridge can last between 10 and 20 years. The one drawback to a bridge is that the bone underneath the gum below the missing tooth or teeth will very slowly start to dissolve without the tooth root(s) to support. A dental implant is a more permanent option which can last a lifetime and prevent bone deterioration.

You can expect to have some temperature and pressure sensitivity for a few days after your bridge installation, but this should wear off within a week or two. You should maintain your strict at-home oral hygiene regimen to keep the adjacent teeth strong and healthy.

If you think a dental bridge can restore your smile, call our Shawnee dental office at 913-667-7051 to request a consultation with one of our dentists.

We serve patients in Shawnee, Western Shawnee, and Shawnee Mission, as well as Bonner Springs, Olathe, De Soto, Eudora, Edwardsville, Lake Quivera, Merriam, and the surrounding communities.